GERMAN 1936 OLYMPICS RACE CAR QUALIFICATION BADGE
HISTORY
As far as we can make out this was a sponsored race by an organization within the National Socialist Party structure that sponsored a special auto race. It is believed that BMW was the main sponsor although no particular sponsor was revealed by name. This was on official order of the party leadership since it was determined that no company would be able to have any financial advantage over any other in this year of 1935, one year prior to the opening of the 1936 Olympics. Any company, however, that contributed was given credit in the official “Hilfe Rosters.” The oval badge shows a high-speed racecar with the words “Förderungsrennen” (Sponsored Race). It shows the Olympic rings under the vehicle and under that are the words “Der Deutschen Olympiahilfe 1935” (German Olympic Aid 1935). It is believed that these badges were given to the racecar drivers and their crews, but also to all contributors and exhibition personnel. Many of the events and personages participating were sponsored and financed by various companies such as BMW and Mercedes-Benz and, of course, all other events of the upcoming Olympics such as swimming, shooting, skiing, and track running were supported by grants from German industrial firms throughout the Reich. This is a pretty badge, but also historically important. It was presented in several background colors.
ITEM DESCRIPTION
Measures 2 1/4" wide by 1 1/2" tall. The front reads ‘Forderungrsennen Der Deutschen Olympiahilfe 1935’. It shows a race car in the center with the five Olympic rings below. The reverse side is maker marked ‘ges gesch A Stubbe Berlin’. Has a thin horizontal safety pin back. One piece nickel construction with black and brown enamel. Low excellent condition.